I think Leki originally called these trekking poles the Shiva, but they are now officially the Diva, a more appropriate name than that of a Hindu god whose nickname is The Destroyer.

The Diva poles are at the pinnacle of aluminum three-section trekking pole design. What makes them women-specific are the slightly smaller grips for smaller hands, and while the graphics are light and lively there is nothing that will turn off men or boys who want to use the Diva as well. In fact there's a lot to recommend these poles to anyone.

The Diva design incorporates antishock technology into the lower pole section, giving about 50mm of shock absorber action. The entire pole absorbs energy as well, from the flexible tips to the aluminum shaft to the cork handles. The Aergon grips are extremely comfortable, with a 15 degree cant for optimal hand position, no edges and a broad top platform for palming.

Overall the Diva swings very efficiently, packs down small and carries lightly at less than a pound for the pair. They adjust quickly with a twist, and the grip leashes will keep them attached as well as provide additional support. If you're a serious hiker who hasn't yet discovered the energy savings and speed gains from trekking poles - not to mention the safety aspect - you can't do better than the Divas: four legs are better than two!

Leki has this thing going on with their Trigger S strap system, and it's a good thing. The perfect mate for their Speed S Carbon Trigger poles, the Equipe S is a stellar performer all the way around.

The Equipe has a sewn cord loop that clips into compatible poles like the Speed, and the system is truly awesome. Using the Equipe glove means you don't need a strap at all, just place the V between your thumb and forefinger over the pole and you're in like Flynn. It feels completely natural, and you'll forever curse normal straps after the experience.

The Equipe is a great glove even aside from the Trigger system. Constructed of waterproof breathable Gore-tex, the articulation is perfect, the insulation generous and the grip excellent. There is a molded knuckle guard for you slalom freaks that actually makes this a great snowboarding glove too (gasp!). The padding extends to the fingers and cuff even. A closure strap around the wrist keeps it all together. The Equipe S Xtrafit is a whole lotta love for a glove.

Vendors tweak basic gear designs all the time. On a rare good day that tweak rises to the top of the evolutionary pile as a clearly superior mutation, like Brangelina. Passing the fitness function with flying colors is the Leki Speed S Carbon Trigger pole.

This pole starts with a very nice 24oz carbon pole with excellent vibration dampening, fast swing response and none of the cold conduction of metal poles. The grip is great, the baskets perfect for packed snow, and the carbide tips have all the bite you need. So what's the big deal? The Trigger S strap system ROCKS!

The Trigger S is a tiny loop of cord that slips into a small channel on the grip and locks in place. The poles come with a strap system similiar to cross country straps that works with any glove or mitten. When skiing it's a breeze; just slide your hand onto the grip and *click* you're good to go. To release just press the button on the top of the grip with your thumb and you're out. It's really trick, and it's worth it just to see your friend's envious reaction as they're struggling into and out of their old school straps.

Despite abusing the Trigger system we had no problems with durability, no accidental releases, and overall just bombproof performance. A slightly less expensive option is the Leki RX Performer, which we also tested. The click-in system uses a plug instead of a loop, which works well but is not quite as slick as the Speeed S Carbon Trigger setup. Highly recommended.